The problem arises when dallisgrass forms seed heads in pastures. ... Cattle become sick after consuming a significant amount of ergot-infected dallisgrass. Heavy ergot consumption causes nervous conditions seen as hyperexcitability, altered gait, muscle tremors and a lack of coordination in fast movements.

Is Dallisgrass toxic to cattle?

When flowering is initiated, the vegeta- tive growth is significantly reduced due to less leaf production. Once the see heads reach maturity, they can become infected with an ergot that can cause toxicity to livestock and commonly known as “dallisgrass staggers.” The ergot is caused by the fungus, Claviceps paspali.

Is Dallisgrass poisonous?

Toxicity usually is reported on farms with rank dallisgrass seedheads and the fungus present. ... Hay with high amounts of seedhead can also be a problem, so feeding Dallisgrass hay along with other hay is advised, especially if infected seedheads are present.